About Nashik (Panchavati & Kalaram Temple)

Nashik's Panchavati area — literally 'the five banyan trees' — is where Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana built their forest cottage during the final part of their exile, and where the most fateful moment of the Ramayana unfolded: the golden deer, Sita's kidnapping by Ravana, and the confrontation between Lakshmana and Shurpanakha (whose nose Lakshmana cut off — giving the city its name, from 'Nasika' meaning nose). The Kalaram Temple, dedicated to a jet-black idol of Lord Rama, is Panchavati's principal shrine. Nearby are Sita Gufa (the cave where Sita hid), Ram Kund (a sacred bathing tank on the Godavari), Tapovan, and the Kapaleshwar Mahadev temple. Nashik is also one of the four cities that host the Kumbh Mela (Simhastha), held every 12 years.

The Kalaram Temple was built in 1794 by Sardar Rangarao Odhekar. It became historically significant in 1930 when Dr. B. R. Ambedkar led a satyagraha demanding temple entry for Dalits — one of India's foundational civil-rights movements.

Darshan & Aarti

🚌 How to reach

Last mile: Local taxis and autos are available near the shrine area.

Where to stay

Estimated expense (per person)

Estimated for a short 2-day pilgrimage.

Gallery